WOMEN’S groups in four Yasawa communities are gaining new opportunities to generate income following the donation of sewing machines by Vinaka Fiji.
The charitable arm of the South Sea Cruises Group donated the machines to women’s groups in Yalobi, Kese, Tamasua and Navotua under its women’s economic empowerment and livelihood development program.
Vinaka Fiji program coordinator Samisoni Ulitu said the groups were selected following assessments of women’s groups across the communities.
Priority was given to groups that were active, functional, reliable and committed to using and managing the equipment effectively.
“The sewing machines are intended to provide women with practical tools to strengthen their existing sewing skills and create opportunities for income generation within their communities,” Mr Ulitu said.
He said the machines could be used to produce clothing, school uniforms, bags, curtains, handicrafts and other products for local and potential external markets.
Mr Ulitu said the initiative would strengthen the capacity of women’s groups by helping them turn their existing skills into sustainable livelihood opportunities.
The program would also encourage women to work collectively, share skills, mentor younger women and develop small-scale sewing enterprises.
“By supporting functional women’s groups, Vinaka Fiji aims to ensure that the donated equipment is not only utilised effectively but also creates long-term economic benefits for women, their families and the wider community.”
Mr Ulitu said the initiative was more than an equipment donation, describing it as an investment in women’s skills, confidence, entrepreneurship and financial independence.
